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Unequal treatment: confronting racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 7
Authors:
  • Smedley BD et al
Summary:

This book documents the evidence for racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare. The authors explore how disparities arise, how they are experienced and their consequences for the quality of healthcare received. They also analyse the attitudes, expectations and behaviour of patients and providers. Recommendations for areas where disparities could be reduced are outlined, including medical care, financing, allocation of care, availability of language translation, and community-based care. Opportunities for using cross-cultural education are discussed, and recommendations for data collection and research initiatives are provided.

Comment:
Unequal Treatment, a report from the Institute of Medicine, is the pre-eminent study of ethnic disparities in healthcare in the United States. The systematic review of available literature found that ethnic disparities in healthcare exist and because they are often associated with worse outcomes, are unacceptable. This report focuses on two possible sites for change – the operation of healthcare systems including the legal/regulatory climate and discrimination at the individual, provider-patient level. The authors have made a number of pertinent recommendations including increasing awareness of ethnic disparities in healthcare among the general public, key stakeholders and particularly providers. These recommendations have clear and direct implications for healthcare providers, research organisations and academic institutions here in Aotearoa, through identification of quality improvement innovations and creating solutions.
Reference: ISBN 978-0-309-08265-5
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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